Home > Jay Bookman > Archives > 2008 > May > 15 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USObama’s success suggests we can transcend race
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Race has been in the room since the beginning. It was there in Philadelphia, where the Founding Fathers debated slavery in the Declaration of Independence and Constitution. It is there now, two centuries later, still playing a central if sometimes hidden role in politics.
But in the election of 2008, the first in which a black person stands a reasonable chance of becoming president, the role of race will be far from hidden.
In ways large and small, the weeks and months ahead will test just how far we’ve come as a nation.
For some individuals, the answer will be not very far at all. In Marietta, for example, a tavern owner is proudly selling T-shirts depicting Barack Obama as a monkey holding a banana. Naturally, he professes to see nothing racist in the image.
Likewise, a few months ago a minor Republican Party official here in Georgia sent a mass e-mail to fellow party members and others featuring Photoshopped images of top Democrats.
In one, a bawling Chelsea Clinton is seen holding a T-shirt proclaiming “My mom is getting her ass kicked by a Negro,” as if there were some special shame in that.
In the second, Bill and Hillary are seen standing near a plantation house with a black-faced lawn jockey. The face on the lawn jockey is that of Obama.
Later, the official sent out an e-mail to apologize “if this offended anyone,” explaining that she had only forwarded an e-mail that she herself had received from many others.
“Please be assured that the 25 longtime conservative Republicans who have forwarded this to me are not at all racists,” she wrote.
No. Not at all. Why would anybody think that?
But you know what? Ugly as it might get, let’s draw this poison out. Let’s drag it into the open, where it can stand as concrete refutation of the claim that racism doesn’t really exist anymore. It remains real, it retains the power to warp lives and futures and souls, and you can see its handiwork throughout our society.
However, while we acknowledge that racial bias remains a powerful subcurrent in all aspects of American life, it’s also important not to confuse that subcurrent with the mainstream. The country is changing quickly, and for the better, and there is no stronger evidence of that transformation than Obama himself.
Early in the primary process, a lot of African-American voters and leaders were wary of Obama’s candidacy. They were not ready to believe that their fellow Americans might support a black candidate; they feared that his rejection would be their rejection as well.
So when Obama started surprising people with victories in Iowa and other states, some of his fellow black Americans were most surprised of all. That initial wariness has since been replaced by joy, with black voters turning out in record numbers for Obama.
However, that enthusiasm is about more than a chance for black Americans to vote for “one of their own.” This time, black Americans seem motivated to vote as much out of excitement about this country as about the candidate. They seem thrilled that the secret, often unspoken hopes they have nurtured for America and their place in it might actually come true someday, and that “someday” could even be today. They’re voting not just for Obama, but for America.
Seeing that hope realized does not, in the end, require that Barack Obama win the election. He may very well lose, just as fellow Democrats John Kerry and Al Gore lost before him for reasons other than their race. What matters will be how the campaign is run.
It would be a vast exaggeration to refer to the Republican Party as racist. However, it has certainly been willing to play on racial fear and resentment for political advantage, pushing that message just hard enough to have an effect without being obvious.
Against Obama, that will be a tricky thing to modulate. As we’ve seen, his very presence in the race will provoke some to excess, and if the GOP pushes things too far, or if it tolerates the worst instincts of those on its fringe, it risks a powerful backlash in Obama’s favor.
Because we’re just not that country anymore.
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By John Brown
May 15, 2008 8:06 AM | Link to this
Typical white people….
By Goldie
May 15, 2008 8:15 AM | Link to this
Yes, it’s time we move America into the 21st century — and some will be kickin-n-screamin along the way as they cling to their 20th century mentality. It’s way past time for looking beyond the color of one’s skin in determining our leaders!
By whatever
May 15, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this
Several things in your blog made me laugh, but this one in particular: “It would be a vast exaggeration to refer to the Republican Party as racist.” You should have added, “of course, I will do it anyway.” The truth of the matter, Jay, is that most of the country would be willing to vote for a black person……as long as he/she isn’t a cardcarrying liberal like Obama. I also look forward to your comments decrying the Democrats playing of the “age card”. But I won’t hold my breath.
By ron
May 15, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this
The fact that almost every black in America supports Obama has nothing to do with race.
By Voice of Reason
May 15, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this
It’s funny that Obama is called the elitist, when he came from a poorer upbringing and has less net worth that McCain or Clinton. Also, here we have a smart, articulate (Yes, I use the word), highly intelligent, accomplished Black man and white people still do things like those tee shirts and other disparaging antics you see online.
Everyone needs to see other human beings as just that—human beings. White people don’t hold all the cards on being human; in fact, oftentimes, they act anything but, when it comes to their approach in relating to people who are not white.
The only “problem” with this current process is, if Obama were to win the election, it would make many White people feel that all racism in this country is over…and it won’t be.
By WillM
May 15, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this
“The fact that almost every black in America supports Obama has nothing to do with race.”
And it drives you absolutely crazy, doesn’t it?
By jasper
May 15, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this
Let’s unpack Racism. In its simplest form it is akin to the “birds of a feather” maxim, in that we are drawn to those most like ourselves. This is somewhat natural and not necessarily a bad thing, but still presents a challenge to our human condition because our preferences for one easily turn in to indifference or antipathy for the other. This challenge is best overcome by a proactive discourse with those seemingly unlike ourselves, until we find our set of preferences evolving from visual similarities to a desire or curiosity to discover the potential enjoyment of another’s positive qualities. This process will put into perspective a person’s physical appearance, and moves the observer beyond classifications and stereotypes into a new realm interpersonal experience.
It is at this level of enlightenment where we can look upon one another with a true sense of equality and commonality that binds us together as human beings and allows us to objectively discern a person’s character and compatibility with our own. It is through this sharp lens that we should encounter Barack Obama and without any preconceived notion or conditioning inarguably determine that he is the worst possible thing that could happen to this country. Brotherly love to all.
By ConservativeDem
May 15, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this
Jay, I think most whites have transcended race. Its the liberals and blacks who have the problem. Blacks want special and I do mean special treatment. Like affirmative action, hate crimes, and I owe them $50,000 dollars. Goldie! Tell that to your black friends please! I choose Obama over Hillary. But I do like the Curious George T-shirt.
By West Cobb Dad
May 15, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this
The vast majority of white Americans don’t care about race. They look for the good in people and whether or not they can do the job. Black, white, latino, or whatever. I am not going to vote for Obama not because he is black, but rather he does not, in my opinion, have the experience to lead this country. His seat in the senate wasn’t even warm before he started to run for president. Why hasn’t the media brought this up? It looks as if everyone is trying to make him into this generation’s JFK. We’ll JFK served 3 terms in the house and was in his 2nd term as senator before he ran. He didn’t even serve as governor in his state. Can he make speeches? Yes. But how will he govern? At least Hillary (who was and is more qualified than her doofus husband) served a term and on some commitees. Obama hasn’t had the time. Unfortunately, if he doesn’t get elected, the race card will be played to death. I just wish back in ‘96 Powell had run. He would have won by a landslide. But he was too ‘moderate’ for the right-wing of the republicans. In other words, he is what 90% of America is.
By sam
May 15, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this
The people of the United States have already shown that they believe we have real problems that are “bigger ” than race that need to be addressed; will I continue to have a job so that I can take care of my family? will my children be able to have days at school where they do not have to fear for their lives? Will my children ever return home from Iraq alive? Skin color is TOTALLY irrevalent in the face of today s REAL problems.
By zeke
May 15, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this
What crap! Obama has absolutely no substance! Period! No record to study! No experience to run the government! No “gravitas” as liberals are so free to say! He is a fascist in the truest sense of the world! His constant rant of change is hollow, no meaning, no statement of what change he is talking about! Be careful, that change may lead us further into FDR’S, Johnson’s, Carter’s and Clinton’s headlong rush into a socialist government that will destroy the hugh economic engine of freedom that has been the US for the last 200+ years! And yes, as in Atlanta, Cleveland, Detroit, Los Angeles and DC, blacks are voting enmass for him because he is black! Look at those cities and their constant social and fiscal problems! WE DO NOT WANT THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT, WHICH ALREADY FAR EXCEEDS IT’S CONSTITUTIONAL LIMITS TO EMULATE THESE FAILED CITIES! LEFT IS WRONG! RIGHT IS RIGHT! VOTE CONSERVATIVE!
By Marie
May 15, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this
Jay:
Get a grip!! You libbies only have a problem when a black democrat is depicted as lawn jockeys, monkeys, or in any way talked about in “racial” terms.
Where was the outrage when Doonesbury played to the worse stereotypes of black women when he drew a cartoon of Condi Rice; in which the President referred to her as “Brown Sugar”?
Where was the outrage when another cartonist drew a scarf on Condi’s head and depicted her as the black slave woman from the movie “Gone with the Wind” with the caption “I dun no notin’ bout birthin no babies”.
Or the outrage when Dems threw oreo cookies at Michael Steele during a rally as he was running for US Senate? Or when Senator Schumer broke the law by pulling this Steele’s credit report (oh I’m sorry he blamed that on his staffers)?
Or how about the time when Clarence Thomas was depicted in a cartoon on a black national “liberal leaning” magazine as a lawn jockey and another time as a handkerchief head negro?
Where was the outrage when Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reid, stated that Justice Thomas was incapable of writing “grammatically correct” opinions?
Has Barack Obama apologized to Condi Rice for his “former” pastor referring to her as Condaskeezer during one of his rants that he calls a sermon? For those of you who don’t know a skeezer is a woman of ill-repute, a w*******, a slut, etc.
What about the all the times when the NAACP or Harry Belafonte has referred to Condi Rice, Colin Powell, Rodney Page, and other blacks who have served in the Presiden’t cabinet as Uncle Toms?
So get off your high horse — because as a black conservative female I could go on and on about the double standard that folks like you want to apply. The only time “so-called racism” against blacks offends you is when it is directed at black Democrats, but, Dems can say the nastiest, dirtiest, and most outrageous things about black Republicans and you won’t hear a peep from media pundits like you.
By Eric1
May 15, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this
Good column, Jay. I think you’re right on target with this one.
By Donald
May 15, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this
The Native Americans were not forced on reservation. The Whites were not slaughtered at the Alamo. The Japanese-Americans were not put in WW2 concentration camps. The Irish immigrants were not discriminated against when they came to America. BUT ask the AJC, and every thing that ever happens to a Black American is 100% racist in nature. We are sick of your opinions, how about some balance for a change !
By tar
May 15, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this
Unfortunately race is playing a major role in this election. A great many Whites, Hispanics and Asians said they would not vote for a Black Man. The key words are Black Man, the color of his skin.
Many Whites still feel that Blacks are inferior to them. The Hispanics and Asians feel that the Blacks are a minority like themselves, therefore they can not promote a black, because then he will be higher than them.
Thank goodness, that the young, educated people who have been in school and worked with Blacks, do not feel that Blacks are inferior. Will racism ever cease to exist? Racism will only cease when everyone decides to place value on the other person.
By JeremiahWright
May 15, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this
Race wasn’t an issue for white people until Rev. Wright made it one. And most of that blame falls on Obama for associating with him and Louis Farakhan for starters.
By Filster
May 15, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this
You must be joking, at least with respect to Atlanta. Move beyond race? What chance does a white candidate have to be elected mayor of Atlanta? How about Mayor Iverson’s 1/2 block vs. Jackson having the airport renamed. Look at Able Mabel’s comments about not caring what white business wants with regard to Hartsfield, or BIlly McKinney and is “J-E-W-S” comment. Move past race? Keep dreaming.
By whatever
May 15, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this
Hey, Marie: Please run for office….you have my vote! Your comments are brilliant and so true. I won’t wait for Jay to respond, though. You don’t exist in his eyes….
By candide
May 15, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this
The success of Obama, even if he loses in November, bodes well for the future of race relations. Obama has been done in by Rev. Wright which arouses fear of black revanche and by his own wife who has refused to denounce Wright, leaving people believing rightly or wrongly that she is a black nationalist. When another Obama comes around — without this particular baggage — he will win. There are incorrigibles in every country but they need not dominate.
By Sarah
May 15, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this
It’s hard to not think race when you hear Rev Wright. It’s hard to exclude race when you see BET, NAACP, The 100 Black Men of Atlanta; yes very hard to do so because from where I these are predicated on race to me. Oh…so we’re only to exlude the white race, oh…now I got it, thanks. You Obama supporters have been afforded a ’ Don’t Touch Our Black Man’ candidate since the beginning and now the heat in the political kitchen has been turned up and the crybabies are coming out of the woodwork. Get use to it, there’s much more to come. If your Obama candidate is the real deal, he should be able to withstand the wave that’s about to hit him. You all have been spoonfed your liberal doublestandards for far too long. And one more thing, someone please tell Obama that his remark about there being 57 states in the United States was taking stupid to new heights. Only Republicans seem to have caught this, I usppose we’re the only ones that really know our history.
By Sarah
May 15, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this
It’s hard to not think race when you hear Rev Wright. It’s hard to exclude race when you see BET, NAACP, The 100 Black Men of Atlanta; yes very hard to do so because from where I these are predicated on race to me. Oh…so we’re only to exlude the white race, oh…now I got it, thanks. You Obama supporters have been afforded a ’ Don’t Touch Our Black Man’ candidate since the beginning and now the heat in the political kitchen has been turned up and the crybabies are coming out of the woodwork. Get use to it, there’s much more to come. If your Obama candidate is the real deal, he should be able to withstand the wave that’s about to hit him. You all have been spoonfed your liberal doublestandards for far too long. And one more thing, someone please tell Obama that his remark about there being 57 states in the United States was taking stupid to new heights. Only Republicans seem to have caught this, I usppose we’re the only ones that really know our history.
By Sarah
May 15, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this
It’s hard to not think race when you hear Rev Wright. It’s hard to exclude race when you see BET, NAACP, The 100 Black Men of Atlanta; yes very hard to do so because from where I these are predicated on race to me. Oh…so we’re only to exlude the white race, oh…now I got it, thanks. You Obama supporters have been afforded a ’ Don’t Touch Our Black Man’ candidate since the beginning and now the heat in the political kitchen has been turned up and the crybabies are coming out of the woodwork. Get use to it, there’s much more to come. If your Obama candidate is the real deal, he should be able to withstand the wave that’s about to hit him. You all have been spoonfed your liberal doublestandards for far too long. And one more thing, someone please tell Obama that his remark about there being 57 states in the United States was taking stupid to new heights. Only Republicans seem to have caught this, I usppose we’re the only ones that really know our history.
By Rod Peterson
May 15, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this
Racism is the reason Cynthia Tucker, a brilliant columnist and very insightful person cannot regularly blog. It is why often Terance Moore’s columns do not allow comments. It’s because the racist bile directed at them goes way too far for them to be exposed to the sickos.
By Natasha
May 15, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this
People are forgetting that slowly but steadily there has been an increase in the number of African Americans who have ascended to positions of prominence in both politics and corporate America. No, it hasn’t been easy, and yes, the victories have been hard won, but we have, as a nation begun to accept that the best man for the job may very well be Hispanic, Black, Asian, Native American or even a woman.
Does that mean we have completely overcome? No. But it is not inconceivable, at least not to me, that at a time when we regularly see Condi Rice and Colin Powell and Stanley O’Neal on our TV screens engaging in intelligent, meaningful discussions that Barack Obama would do well as a presidential candidate.
America has changed and continues to change. Yes, there is still discrimination and oppression and racism, and yes, there will always be individuals who see race, gender and/or sexual orientation before they see the person. But, despite all, we continue to move forward and make changes for the better.
And that is a good thing. Even if Barack ultimately loses to McCain in the general election he has demonstrated that Americans are, by and large, ready to take the next step towards living up to its declaration that all men are created equal.
And that is a good thing.
By FormerDem
May 15, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this
The sad thing, Obama will lose the general election not because of race but because of his lack of experience and his too-liberal stance, and the defeated Dems will cry racism. Had he gotten more experience under his belt before running for president, he would have been a formidable candidate despite his liberal leanings. Everyone will blame Hillary for staying in the race too long, but the truth is Obama does not yet have the experience necessary to be President especially with economic and world conditions as they are. I have voted for the Democrat in every presidential election since 1988, but I will be voting for McCain this year. And it has nothing to do with racism and all to do with experience.
By jasper
May 15, 2008 9:11 AM | Link to this
What a waste of a column today. The space could have been better used to revive another 75 year old lynching or another riveting argument for reparations. How about another muslim feel good story next time.
The AJC is the grand imperial wizard of stoking racial tension. Its like your’e trying to keep the struggle alive by regurgitating the past. Criticism does not equal racism, nor does ridcule or satire. I am diametrically oposed to Obama due to his extreme liberal positions. Anyone who believes that the Governement is the answer is a coward, because they don’t posess the individual courage and determination to make their life better. And if criticising Obama because he thinks the Governement should take care of people makes me a racist, then give me my pointed hat. Racism is alive and well but primarily because it sells newspapers.
By Theo
May 15, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this
Great Column, Jay. Right On. Jasper, Question. “Birds of a feather”?? Tell Me, Why Is It That Children Of All Races On A Playground At A Park Seem To NATURALLY Play Together? Must Be In The Genes I’d Say.
By edward irvin
May 15, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this
For Bookman to insinuate that rebublicans are more inclined to use racial tactics in campaigns is laughable at best. Perhaps he has forgotten the daughter of James Byrd’s hit on George Bush, perhaps he has forgotten Shirley Franklin’s eleventh hour hit on Lee Morris, perhaps for reasons of convenience.
By Country Mouse
May 15, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this
Marie,
I love you! You said so well exactly what I wanted to say. Problem is if I had said it, it would have been racist.
By Eric
May 15, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
Democrat-led political correctness and “diversity” have forced people to apply a different (lower) standard in assessing the qualifications of minorities—and that is why Obama will be the Democrat nominee.
Obama’s most notable work experience is that of a “community organizer” and only under a lack of scrutiny could someone so unqualified become the nominee. Since when has a low-level social services job constituted acceptable credentials to become President of the United States? The answer is that in the era of political correctness a black community organizer is more than well qualified.
In the general election Obama will face more scrutiny—primarily from more conservative voters (both Republicans and Democrats) who are more discerning in their assessment of a candidate. If Obama loses, Democrats will once again cite racism as the reason for his loss and will blame Republicans. But it is Democrats who rejected Obama overwhelmingly in West Virginia. I believe that most of these Democrats recognize he is unqualified.
Remember that Democrats are the ones focused on race and are responsible for the substantial infighting within their own party. From whether the Clinton’s campaign trail remarks were or were not racist to Geraldine Ferraro to the BET Chairman’s comments [drug dealer Obama] to “Reverend” Wright to Obama’s own comments (“typical white person”), Democrats are obsessed with race and gender.
Don’t bother Democrats with talk about whether a candidate is qualified. If you don’t vote for Obama, the only reason MUST be because he is black. The Dems create walled-off constituencies—almost like market niches or segments—and pit one against the other to acquire and retain power.
Because he or she will possess genuine qualifications, the first minority to be elected President will probably be a conservative.
By Earl
May 15, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
Blacks have got to use to the idea that if you want to enter into the political arena you have to grow some thick skin and not be ready to yell ‘racism’ any time you’re lampooned or made a joke of. How many jokes has Bush been the butt of but you don’t hear him cry racism or demand special treatment. I don’t think the average black is ready for a black President because of this, they can’t sit back and accept criticsm without it being labeled as an attck on a black. You need to mature on the national political level some more before you’re ready. It appears it’s not your time yet because of this.
By Doodad
May 15, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
And here I thought Obama was half white.
That someone could get this far having no experience and only pablum for the masses says it all. This empty suit would never have gotten this far except for his complexion. There is some change you can believe in. Si se peurde.
Excellent post Marie.
By JeremiahWright
May 15, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this
Don’t forget when Philadelphia Inquirer editor Boyd Watkins called Juan Williams (a Fox News analyst) a “Happy Negro”. And he also called Obama a “House Negro” when he criticized Rev. Wright. No outcry.
By JeremiahWright
May 15, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this
Oh, and don’t forget the most recent congressional elections in Atlanta where John Lewis, Shirley Franklin, Bill Campbell, and other rank racists sent a last minute flyer to their constituents with a picture of a black man being sprayed by fireman’s hoses saying that if a Republican is elected the country will return to that kind of racism. Nah, that wasn’t race baiting. No outcry.
By GA_Tiger Fan
May 15, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
It’s blacks who can’t seem to get past their race….Miss Black America, BET, Black Coalition of ?….come on…..I don’t know if they will ever get over the entitlement mentality. Of course the Dems love it as this is their core support so why would they really care about change.
By No relief in site
May 15, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
Black, white, female, or other, there’s not a leader in the group. We’re at a point where someone will have to make a hard and unpopular decision. Absolutely nobody currently running for office is willing or capable of doing this.
Problems: 1) It is estimated that in the next 40-50 years the oil supplies will be exhausted. 2)Social security is not secure. 3)The education system has failed the students. 4)Our manufacturing jobs are currently residing in foreign lands. 5) Crime is bad and getting worse. And the list goes on.
Which of the candidates is going to do anything about any of these issues? Crickets.
Great and gutsy men founded this country. It has since been handed over to cowards.
Question: If tonight they announced the end of the recession, and we are defintely in a recession, where would the money come from for the average middle class family to consume more?
Everything has gone up but wages. And for those that feel untouched by this recent economy, it will be hitting your industry soon. Be patient.
We are witnessing the fall of an empire.
Not all is doom and gloom. We still have time to brush up on our chinese.
By The Truth
May 15, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this
Thanks to democrats and liberals we have not transcended race. Jesse and Al have made sure that blacks hate white people and that the KKK will kill them if they don’t vote democrat. Just like the evil republicans will take away your social security. It never happens. Look at the Obama t-shirt debacle. What was racist about it? Liberals claim that we came from monkeys so how is it that it’s racist to show him as a monkey? By the way, Hussein Obama is half white so it can’t be racist.
John Brown, Way to make the point that race is still an issue you dope.
By Bo
May 15, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this
Why did you not mention Rev Wright, Al, or Jesse. Some of the biggest race hustlers in the country today. They work to keep this country divided. If they didn’t they wouldn’t have a job. Although I’m willing to have faith that the American people will compare McCain and Obama on merits rather than race. It’s to bad that the clear fact is blacks are voting based race though. Compare McCain and Obama. A freshman Senator verses a grizzled veteran. Someone who is indesive and and hard to believe on policy verses a war hero. If people take a good look at both candidates there’s no denying who the best possible choice is…..
By JeremiahWright
May 15, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this
When Obama shows up on the O’Reilly Factor (hopefull in the next couple of weeks) we’ll finally get some useful information on Obama. So far we know what’s on his iPOD and whether he likes wine or beer with his steak. Useful stuff like that.
Hopefully you saw the Clinton and McCain interviews on the Factor.
By jeed
May 15, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
By ron
May 15, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this
The fact that almost every black in America supports Obama has nothing to do with race.
Right. …and neither is the fact is that Clinton does “overwhelmingly” well among the WHITE working class. Imagine that.
By JeremiahWright
May 15, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this
Oh, and “No relief in sight”:
Who’s going to stop illegal immigration? They’re all sitting on their hands, and that’s the easiest problem there is to solve.
By The Truth
May 15, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this
Marie, I would back you 100% if you ran for office. I’m a huge fan of Thomas Sowell, who has been called an uncle tom by libs for years. People like him, Bill Cosby, Michael Steele, JC Watts and many other blacks have been name called by Jesse and Al. MLK would probably want to punch out those two if he were to come back today.
By Koz
May 15, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
Barack has a better chance of winning if we judge him by the color of his skin…
…Because he sure doesn’t want us to judge him by the content of his character.
By tar
May 15, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
ConservativeDem,
Your posting proves that racism is alive and well. You says that Blacks have the problem, well it seems to me that unhappy and miserable people like yourselves are the ones with the problems.
Marie,
There is no difference in racism in the Democratic Party and in the Republican Party? It is still racism.
By Charles
May 15, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
I find it offensive that someone who compare a human being to a monkey. There should be no tolerance for such behavior in our society!
That being said I think it is time the AJC takes a stand against denegrating people in this manner. They can start by firing Mike Luckovich for drawing our President as a monkey.
(of course, they’ll never do it - Liberalism is a one-way street)
By theprogressivebigot
May 15, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
And anyone that doesn’t support Obama or just happens to find his features similar to curious George, IS a racist!!!!
By JeremiahWright
May 15, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
Yeah, if you don’t support Obama, you’re a racist. That’s how blacks look at it because of that “gimme” mentality. (eyeroll)
By The Truth
May 15, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
theprogressivebigot, You really need to read the definition of racism. How about explaining all the cartoons drawn of Condi as a slave woman? That is 100 times more racist than that t-shirt.
By Mike
May 15, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
We won’t transcend race as long as the AJC and the rest of the liberal media have anything to say about it.
Three days of front-page coverage on this stupid monkey shirt? Yeah, the bar owner is an idiot, but there are plenty of racists out there, black and white. However they are in the minority, a fact that Bookman and the AJC will never let people accept.
By JeremiahWright
May 15, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this
Come on, AJC. Let’s see how fair you are. People have listed plenty of example of racism from blacks. How about including those stories in your “coverage”? Betcha won’t. And that’s why no one subscribes to your liberal, biased, race baiting paper.
By Fix-It
May 15, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this
Cynthia Tucker is one of the biggest racist I have ever seen. She can’t go out to eat with out finding there is some racist problem with her food or service. Racism does not seem to be a white thing any more; I guess it is a black thing, maybe a culture thing. But are we supposed to just let it be?
By Make me laugh
May 15, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this
Are we really ready for Al and Jesse to be staging monthly protest marches in front of the White House if Obama wins and the Republicans don’t ask how high when Obama yells jump? How can 91 per cent of a race vote for a person they seemingly know very little about other than skin tone and say their vote is not race based? How can we accept this without being suspect ? How can we listen to Rev. Wright and not realize there’s a monolithic double standard in play here and not realize if a white man said one fourth of what this man said, he’d be crucified by the press. I must agree with Earl that balcks are not ready for a black person to be Commander in Chief. They could not sit back and accept the criticism that comes along with such a high public office. Add to that the fact that I could never accept his wife as First Lady after hearing her say she’s never been proud of Amercia before the day she thought her husband could be President. A First Lady shouldn’t be totally void of class and Michelle Obama strikes me a person with a hidden agenda and totally void of class and the good breeding required to represent this wonderful country we call Amercia and it has nothing to do with race, it’s about personal values and she seems void of all the ingredients required to be a First Lady.
By Make me laugh
May 15, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this
Are we really ready for Al and Jesse to be staging monthly protest marches in front of the White House if Obama wins and the Republicans don’t ask how high when Obama yells jump? How can 91 per cent of a race vote for a person they seemingly know very little about other than skin tone and say their vote is not race based? How can we accept this without being suspect ? How can we listen to Rev. Wright and not realize there’s a monolithic double standard in play here and not realize if a white man said one fourth of what this man said, he’d be crucified by the press. I must agree with Earl that balcks are not ready for a black person to be Commander in Chief. They could not sit back and accept the criticism that comes along with such a high public office. Add to that the fact that I could never accept his wife as First Lady after hearing her say she’s never been proud of Amercia before the day she thought her husband could be President. A First Lady shouldn’t be totally void of class and Michelle Obama strikes me a person with a hidden agenda and totally void of class and the good breeding required to represent this wonderful country we call Amercia and it has nothing to do with race, it’s about personal values and she seems void of all the ingredients required to be a First Lady.
By Rosita
May 15, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this
Thank you, Jay. Once again you have brought a thoughtful, reasoned opinion to the public dialogue. Before the West Virginia primary, I would have thought we had already transcended the race issue. But now we know a lot of work remains before we can make that claim.
By The Truth
May 15, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this
AJC, Explain the times Ms. Cynthia Tucker has called George Bush a racist in her columns. I’ve noticed that blogs and articles on this site are all about race issues and how whites suppress blacks. Your newspaper is nothing more than a conspiracy theory type of paper. Your writers can not report news so they voice their opinions and try to force them on other people. I really hope that the AJC goes out of business along with MARTA.
By No relief in site
May 15, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this
Look at you guys. The politicians are able to do what they do because they occupy your minds with these endless and winless battles. It’s a great game of misdirection. You worry about the color of someone’s skin while they rob and loot the country of its riches.
Most of them will be retiring on $10,000+ a month pensions. What about you?
It’s time to get our heads out of our azzes. Oh sorry, wrong audience. This is the same group that wanted to impeach Bill for getting a bj while allowing Bush to screw the nation.
Nevermind.
Jeremiah there are hundreds of potential topics. Just nobody with the cajones to solve them. LOL
By Yep
May 15, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
This is a great positioning ploy by Bookman. He equates our electing of Obama with racial tolerance. The only way we are racially tolerant is if we elect him president. If we don’t elect him we are a bunch of ignorant racists and he can rant his leftist propaganda for 4 more years. Never mind Obama’s left of center, government takes care of all platform. Either way he wins.
By theprogressivebigot
May 15, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
I’m better than McCain’s voters because I’m obviously a lot smarter than those dinosaur loving, voted Bush in twice, dumasses!!!
By Jay Bookman
May 15, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
Dear Yep:
Read the column, which states explicitly: “Seeing that hope realized does not, in the end, require that Barack Obama win the election. He may very well lose, just as fellow Democrats John Kerry and Al Gore lost before him for reasons other than their race. What matters will be how the campaign is run.”
By duster
May 15, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
I really shouldn’t insult Jay by suggesting that he actually believes what he writes.
By The Truth
May 15, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this
theprogressivebigot, I voted for Bush twice. I don’t think that you are smarter than me. I’m guessing that you work in Starbucks.
By Wanda
May 15, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
Neither Hillary or Obama need to be President. A lot of people are voting for Obama because he is black and voting for Hillary because she is a woman. How stupid can you be. But to tell you the truth I really feel that our country is in real trouble no matter who wins. Obama, Clinton, or McCain. Everybody better do a lot of praying for this country.
By RealityKing
May 15, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
If Obama is not elected President, it can only be because the South(like WV) is still full of racist white people.
This is the new political agenda being passed down from the far left liberals. Just listen to Jay crow..
By Steve
May 15, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this
MIKE LUKOVICH CAN DIPICT PRESIDENT BUSH AS A MONKEY; CONDI RICE CAN BE SHOWN WITH A SCARF AROUND HER HEAD AND SAYING “SHE DON’T KNOW NOTHIN ‘BOUT BIRTHIN NO BABY” AND NOT A WORD FROM THE AJC, BUT THE BAR OWNER IN MARIETTA MAKES A STATEMENT AND ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE.
By Yep
May 15, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this
Dear Jay Bookman-
Obama is not running a good campaign. Not addressing issues, serious issues, like Jeremiah Wright, William Ayers,taxing the middle class, etc by saying “This is the same old Washington game, blah, blah, blah” and never answering. Then the media claiming that everyone is racist for asking tough, pertinent and relevant questions is exactly the point. Every opposition of Obama, win or lose will be branded racist. And this gives the liberal left the excuse and ammunition they need / want.
Respectfully,
Yep
By Gigi
May 15, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this
I’m only going to respond to the topic, Have We Transcended Race? I’ll make this short and sweet, because I truly don’t believe my opinion will change anyone or anything. So here goes…
What on earth is wrong with people who judge another person based on the amount of melanin in their skin!!! That is not even logical! The criteria for making a determination about another person should be based on the manner in which they conduct their lives and the the way they interact with others — is this so radical an idea!? I’m a conservative but I’m also a fair-minded person — and this seems like just normal thinking to me.
By Me
May 15, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this
Black people are just as racist against whites as they are against us. PERIOD. Black people are racist merely as a defensive mechanism to combat the misperceptions we experience daily at the hands of our great Southern white folks. I am a black woman who is educated w/a good job who didn’t ride the affirmative action b/c y’all white mofos would’ve used that as an excuse for my intelligence and my career advancement - taking credit for ‘ish I worked my butt off for.
I wouldn’t give two craps if Obama was orange, yellow or whatever. Obama’s background alone makes him a great representative and leader for this country. His background is as diverse as this country. And we need that. To me, he doesn’t represent just BLACK. He represents it ALL - Mexican, Asian, etc. I don’t want the same ole redneck Republican or Clinton wannabe. I want the real deal and Obama is IT!
And I loved this blog, Jay!
By Stephen
May 15, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this
Steve…Great point on Luckovich and Condi. Forgot all about that. Typical, though.
By JeremiahWright
May 15, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this
Thanks Gigi. You have a keen grasp of the obvious. We’re way past that. No one’s judging anyone on their skin color, unless you’re talking about liberal blacks judging everyone else.
By No relief in site
May 15, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
Jeremiah the ajc does plenty to keep the races baited on both sides. How about when something happens they show the one toothless, uneducated black person in the group. Could be a group of Black Harvard Grads but they’d pick the crackhead walking by and ask him what he thinks. LMAO
Wanda I agree 100%. We all need to march on Washington and physically take our country back. That won’t happen though, everyone would rather sit at work and type out their complaints. By the time we wake up this system will have collapsed. We’re all as guilty as the politicians for allowing this to happen.
Whether Obama wins or loses the election he has won. If he loses he will get picked up by some law firm and given a great compensation package to do nothing. It’s grat pr.
By JeremiahWright
May 15, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
Ironically, ProgressiveBigot spelled “d*******” wrong.
By Steve
May 15, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
How can we get past race when people like Cynthia Tucker refuse to allow us to? Liberals are the ones that want to classify us and divide us by race, not whites and not conservatives
By mae
May 15, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
I supported Obama until the Rev. Wright flap. When I heard what Wright had said about the “white government” creating AIDS to decimate the African-American race, I was painfully reminded that my kid’s Georgia history teacher actually told the class the same thing Wright said and added that blacks were being drafted for the war in Iraq at a higher rate than whites. Never mind that AIDS kills people of every race and that there hasn’t been a draft in the U.S. since the Vietnam era! My kid got into the car crying that afternoon because our nephew was serving in Iraq at the time. The teacher’s comments were ignorant and hateful, just like Wright’s. I do believe that Obama sat in Wright’s church and heard such hate speech and did not disassociate himself until it became politically expedient to do so. Politics as usual. No thanks.
By Dem'08
May 15, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
Senator Clinton: Senator Clinton, who has served only one full term—six years, and another year campaigning, has managed to author and pass into law twenty pieces of legislation in her first six years.These bills can be found on the website of the Library of Congress www.thomas.loc.gov http://www.thomas.loc.gov/ To save you trouble, I will post them here for you: 1. Establish the Kate Mullany National Historic Site. 2. Support the goals and ideals of Better Hearing and Speech Month. 3. Recognize the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. 4. Name courthouse after Thurgood Marshall. 5. Name courthouse after James L. Watson.6. Name post office after Jonn A. O’Shea. 7. Designate August 7, 2003, as National Purple Heart Recognition Day.8. Support the goals and ideals of National Purple Heart Recognition Day.9. Honor the life and legacy of Alexander Hamilton on the bicentennial of his death.10.Congratulate the Syracuse University Men’s Lacrosse Team on winning the championship. 11. Congratulate the Le Moyne College Men’s Lacrosse Team on winning the championship.12. Establish the 225th Anniversary of the American Revolution Commemorative Program. 13. Name post office after Sergeant Riayan A. Tejeda. 14. Honor Shirley Chisholm for her service to the nation and express condolences on her death. 15. Honor John J. Downing, Brian Fahey, and Harry Ford—firefighters who lost their lives on duty. Only five of Clinton’s bills are more substantive. 16. Extend period of unemployment assistance to victims of 9/11. 17. Pay for city projects in response to 9/11.18. Assist landmine victims in other countries. 19. Assist family caregivers in accessing affordable respite care. 20. Designate part of the National Forest System in Puerto Rico as protected in the wilderness preservation system.
Senator Obama: Now, I would post those of Obama’s, but the list is too substantive, so I will mainly categorize them. During the first eight years of his elected service he sponsored over 820 bills. He introduced: 233 regarding healthcare reform; 125 on poverty and public assistance;112 crime fighting bills;97 economic bills;60 human rights and anti-discrimination bills; 21 ethics reform bills;15 gun control; and 6 veterans affairs and many others. His first year in the U.S. Senate, he authored 152 bills and co-sponsored another 427. These included: Coburn-Obama Government Transparency Act of 2006—became law,Lugar-Obama Nuclear Non-proliferation and Conventional Weapons Threat Reduction Act—became law,Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act—passed the Senate,The 2007 Government Ethics Bill—became law,The Protection Against Excessive Executive Compensation Bill is In committee, and many more. In all, since entering the U.S. Senate, Senator Obama has written 890 bills and co-sponsored another 1,096. There you have it, the facts straight from the Senate Record. An impressive record for someone who supposedly has no record according to some who would prefer that this comparison not be made public. He is not just a talker—he is a doer.
By JeremiahWright
May 15, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this
No relief,
We won’t have to march on Washington unless Hillary or Obama wins. Then all hell will break loose.
By Steve
May 15, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this
TO MARIE: EXCELLENT REPLY. THIS WHITE MAN WOULD VOTE FOR YOU IN A HEARTBEAT.SURE THERE ARE SOME PEOPLE WHO WILL ONLY VOTE THE COLOR OF ONE’S SKIN, HOWEVER THIS IS PERPETUATED BY AL SHARPTON AND JESSE JACKSON WHOSE SOLE BUSINESS IS TO PROMOTE RACISM, WITHOUT WHICH THEY WOULD HAVE TO GET A REAL JOB.
By AstroFan
May 15, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
I think this all sucks. Every time Obama wins a state, your hear CNN and Fox News say “it was the large black turnout in that state that helped Obama.” So if this is true, how in the world is Obama winning states with a very very small black population. Such as: Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska and Wyoming, Idaho, where Obama won 79% of the vote! Utah, North Dakota. Now we all know those states have very small black populations. So explained that to me. Media! How did Obama win those states.
By turnerwred1234
May 15, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this
Reading Jay’s article directly and in between-the-lines, on the heel of Edwards’ endorsement of Obama immediately after Hillary took him to the cleaners in WVA, it is more obvious now than ever, at least to me, that Obama’s chances in Novemeber, if he’s the nominee of our Party, are slim to none and grower slimmer by the day.
Edwards’ endorsement of Obama, immediately after the constituents he best represents rejected Obama in WVA, is a shrewd attempt to gain Obama’s support for his own run again in 2012. Obama would be as hard-pressed to endorse Obama and encourage his supporters to vote for Edwards as would be the super delegates to find another nominee than Obama. Edwards endorsement of obama, in short, says a lot more than what political pundits and neophytes in U.S. national politics are loathe to asuume.
By 14
May 15, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this
I love it when Bookman can’t even get the bat off his shoulder and defend his position against the logical and dead on counter points by the right.
By sue488
May 15, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this
Reading over the comments posted I see so many “bitter” expressions. I wonder how many people here really believe Blacks have it easy? How many believe that this government of the people and by the people favors Blacks?
When I hear of experience required to be president, I look no further than our current president. If based on experience he would not be president for we had a record on him. He was voted into office the second time by a wide margin even though his 1st term showed many flaws.
Do we really want someone who is so ingrained in the political infrastructure that he/she will not make a change or be willing to make a change?
I am not saying how one should vote. I am saying do get to know your candidate. Vote for or against the person of your choice. In the end whatever type of government we get will be the government we deserve.
Reading the comments in this column I do say that things will go to hell in a basket before people actually get off their personal soapboxes and demand real change. “Change” is not a bad thing. Am I saying Obama is the only “change” expert, no. I am saying we need a change.
Get to know more about your candidates. See how the money flows. Look at records, look at private dealings, and most of all remember our president is not all powerful.
By StrongOldBlackLady
May 15, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
I defer to the bloggers who believe like I do that Obama has not enough experience on the “big stage” to tackle all the weight and grief of a President. Presidents with larger backgrounds and experience have been tackled and crushed by just things happening. That is a huge job and it is not to be taken lightly.
I have always supported Hillary who as you know is an old battle ax and there is not much she doesn’t know and handle. She’s has already taken the best the Republicans can dish out and is still standing.
When this ends this fall if Obama wins the Democratic nomination the Republicans will “eat him alive” up and down. History shows that they will seek ad destroy their rivals. Then, there will be a Republican in office for president.
By theprogressivebigot
May 15, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this
So what if I work at starbucks!
I’m a highly educated liberal Ivy Leaguer whose education background alone probably doubles your entire mental capacity. It’s not my fault Art History/Urbanomics majors aren’t in high demand here..
By The Truth
May 15, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
theprogressivebigot, Thanks for proving to me and everyone what an idiot you really are. By the way, Dekalb Tech isn’t Ivy League. Just thought I’d inform you.
By Putemallonanisland
May 15, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
I think it’s funny when I post and the AJC deletes it. My post was not derogatory anymore than those above. Way to censor AJC! And all this time I thought your were a bunch of Democrats!!!
By matt
May 15, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
Deputy, We don’t a bed wetter as our next President - no matter what skin color he or she has. Your Buddy, Matt
By sue488
May 15, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this
turnerwred1234
What you saw in the smaller states with lower black population was real republicans attempting to get a “weaker ” candidate nominated to face the republican nominee in the general elections. Obama will not carry those states in the general election. I like to think of myself as having a pragmatic view on this matter. W. Va should have removed any doubts about where this country is in regards to race relations and as to who in this contest would be better able to get more votes than McCain.
Just a note I supported McCain until he started licking more of Bush’s boots. So I am now actually attempting to learn more about Obama and Hillary. I may even vote for a third party candidate in the end.
By The Truth
May 15, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this
Putemallonanisland. That’s what Stalinist do. When you disagree with them they censor you. Classic liberal tactics. Libs don’t like debate. That’s why you have weathermen, science teachers and other people fired from jobs. I can’t wait for the AJC to announce bankruptcy and see Cynthia Tucker in the unemployment line.
By sharon
May 15, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
Ron, you’re right just like older white women and men supporting Hillary has nothing to do with race either.
By beerbellybob
May 15, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
Obama is a junior senator that’s married to another lawyer.
McCain is a war hero that’s married to a fine, big breasted beer distributer.
The experience is obvious!! McCain 2008!!!!
By David
May 15, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
Double standard- Blacks vote on color of skin Whites are to vote on content of character. Not how I remember King’s speech. The best insight into Obama’s beliefs can be tied to Rev Wright. The words hate and race are interchangeable and the bile from Obama’s church tells me all I need to know about this guy. He only got this far because of his percieved race, and not his values. The Clintons would have swung the election had they invited Rev. Wright to the Natl Press Club earlier. Now the Dems are stuck with an candidate that cannot win the general election once the lights shine brightly on his past. Remember the Dems aren’t going to completely take the gloves off on one of their own, the Republicans will. Remember the Swift Boats that sunk Kerry? Oh and the race stuff…it will actually end when entitlement mentality is replaced completely by people striving to succeed on their own merits. Until then everything else is white noise.
By Jay Bookman
May 15, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this
Fess up, Putemallonanisland. Your post was pulled not because of its political content, but because it contained multiple barely disguised uses of the N word.
By sharon
May 15, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
Zeke, you say Blacks are voting for Obam because he’s Black. Why do you think Whites are voting for him?
By Tray
May 15, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
beerbellybob-yeah, i got that e-mail too.
blacks/whites/mexicans/asians…we’re all monkeys deep down inside…
All of the candidates are definately monkeys-they’ve been slinging poo for months now!
By The Truth
May 15, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
sharon, because if they don’t then they will be painted as racists. Look at WV. Chris Mathews called WV a bunch of racists this morning. That’s what libs and dems do. If you don’t vote their way then you are a racist, homophobic, sexist, or intolerant.
By HeySoose
May 15, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this
“By WillM
May 15, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this
“The fact that almost every black in America supports Obama has nothing to do with race.”
And it drives you absolutely crazy, doesn’t it?”
Nope. Just just proves the black community can be just as racist and bigoted.
By AssHat
May 15, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
AJC, want to end the perpetuation of racism? Fire Cynthia Tucker and Terrence Moore.
By Fix-It
May 15, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this
*The truth is according to DNA we are ALL 97% monkey, so why don’t ya’ll shut up and let’s solve some real issues. Like fix the dollar that would fix many issues. Why not let our government drill the oil that we have here then sell it to the oil companies below OPEC prices. That would really chap some Muslim hide. *
By FalconJoe
May 15, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this
Too bad we aren’t expected to vote on character or core beliefs. Instead, we’re expected to be the sheep the respective parties think we are and blindly support whoever they deem worthy of placing before us.
By sharon
May 15, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this
It amazes me how obsessed white people are with Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton. Every time an incident occur the white people say “here comes Jesse and Al”. LMAO. I also find it so bizarre that out of all the names to use as a blogger someone would chose “Jeremiah Wright”.
By Kiki
May 15, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this
Wow, I am so sick of people saying that we know nothing about Obama. Why don’t you try picking up either one of the TWO BOOKS this man has written about his background, upbringing, and personal and political views, hmm? Maybe because that would actually require intelligent thought, and so many of you seem content to simply regurgitate the propaganda that Hannity and the rest of FauxNews serve up for you. Read a book. Get the facts. Form an opinion. Then maybe you can contribute something worthwhile to this discussion.